In a significant political turn of events, President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Raila Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have signed an agreement to cooperate on major government policies. The agreement, announced on March 7, 2025, has caused both optimism and fury turning a new chapter in the politics of Kenya
Raila Odinga and President Ruto were quick to clarify that the agreement is not a political merger but an agreement on consultations between the two of them on issues of national interest. The two leaders clarified that the agreement is aimed at eliminating political tensions, fostering unity and making the government accountable to the interests of all Kenyans. Odinga asserted that critique is not enough but participation is necessary to address the country’s pressing issues.
This move has been seen as a strategic move for both leaders, especially as Ruto previously ruled out the possibility of a ‘handshake’ a local political jargon for government opposition power sharing agreements. Ruto had confirmed his government’s plan to clearly define the government and the opposition so that it can execute effective checks and balances.
While some political analysts have welcomed this move as a step towards unity and national development, others have sounded the alarm over its implications. Critics have stated that the deal has the potential to weaken parliamentary opposition, depriving the government of badly needed checks and balances. Political analyst Nanjala Nyabola warned that the deal had the potential to erode opposition’s role in holding the government accountable.
The harshest criticism has come from Wiper Democratic Movement leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who termed the pact “the greatest betrayal of Kenyans.” Musyoka and other opposition leaders are concerned that the alliance could silence powerful opposition voices and subvert the democratic principle of government accountability.
This is not the first time Raila Odinga is entering into a deal with a sitting president. He has struck such deals with previous presidents Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta. His 2018 handshake with President Kenyatta led to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), the controversial constitutional reform proposal that was ultimately nullified by the courts.
It is against this backdrop that some Kenyans question whether this new accord will lead to tangible political reforms or if it is a strategic maneuver in anticipation of the 2027 elections
As the dust settles on this political agreement the million dollar question remains. Will this accord deliver concrete change or is it simply a tactical move to further political agendas? Only the coming months will determine whether Ruto and Odinga’s alliance will bring effective governance or whether it will further polarize the nation
For the moment Kenyans watch with cautious optimism as their political leaders negotiate this new bargain. Will it be a bridge to national unity or a highway to political accommodation at the expense of democracy? Only time will tell.
President Ruto and Raila Odinga Strike a Political Pact: A New Era or Betrayal?
